Court Rules
Judge Mark S. Blechman
Judge

Judge Mark S. Blechman

Individual Rules, Standing Orders & Policies

Rules last changed:
Ninth Judicial Circuit of Florida, Orange and Osceola Counties

Limits & Logistics

Courtesy Copies

Courtesy copies

Motion, Letter, Proposed Order

  • Email

Motion, Notice Of Hearing, Proposed Order

  • 1 copy • Email

Notice Of Hearing, Motion, Proposed Order

  • 1 copy • Email
  • Email

Adjournments

5Business Daysnotice
  • A continuance request must be submitted at least five business days before the scheduled court date, show good cause, and be signed by the requesting party unless good cause excuses the signature requirement.
Reason For Request

Communication

Email

Chambers

1orange@ninthcircuit.org
SchedulingEmergencies
No status inquiries
Phone
Court-wide

Clerk

407-836-2059
Technical Issues
Phone
Court-wide

Clerk

407-836-2000
Email
Court-wide

Clerk

Technical Issues
Phone
Court-wide

Chambers

Scheduling
Filters:AllMandatoryImportantFormattingSettlementProposed OrdersLettersTypographyTRO/InjunctionExhibitsCourtesy Copies

Document Format Requirements8 rules

Formatting

Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026Mandatory

The ADA accommodations text must use bold 14-point font on all Notices of Hearing.

ADA Accommodations-must be placed on all Notice of Hearings in bold, 14 font:

Typography
Size14 pt
Formatting

Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026Mandatory

Orders must be submitted only in Word format, not RTF, PDF, or another format, because the court can upload only a Word document for electronic signature.

Orders must be in Word format only, (not rtf, pdf or any other version) as the Court can only upload a Word document for electronic signature.

Required Format

DOCX

Formatting

Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026Mandatory

All proposed orders must be submitted in Word format.

Required Format

DOCX

Formatting

Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026Mandatory

Proposed orders must be submitted in Word format.

All proposed orders must be in word format.

Formatting

Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 1, 2026Mandatory

Courtesy-copy documents must be submitted in PDF or Word format and may not be placed in a zip folder or share folder.

Format: PDF or Word Format, not in a zip folder or share folder as they are moved to a queue for the Judge to review and other formats cannot be moved properly.

Formatting

Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026Mandatory

Exhibits must be submitted in Word or PDF format, without zip drives, shared folders, or links.

Format: Word or PDF (no zip drives, share folders or links)

Division 1 - Probate-Guardianship-Mental Health Procedures - 4-16-26 · Apr 2026 · p. 13
|SecG. Exhibits for Evidentiary and Non-Jury Trial Proceedings
Formatting

Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.Mandatory?

The copy must have the filing stamp across the top.

Summary: The copy of the emergency motion emailed to the Judicial Assistant must have the filing stamp across the top.

Formatting

Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.Important?

Copies provided by email should be sent in pdf or Word, not in a zip folder or share folder as they are moved to a queue for the Judge to review and other formats cannot be moved properly.

Summary: Email courtesy copies must be provided as PDF or Word files, not in a ZIP folder or share folder.

Required Format

PDF

Document Filing Requirements35 rules

Filing RequirementsCivil cases

Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026Mandatory

The gross amount of the proposed settlement must be provided in the motion for approval.

1- The specific amount of the gross settlement in this proposed offer and Motion for Approval.

Document Type

Motion For Settlement Approval

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Div-01-Approval-Minors-Settlement · p. 1
|SecITEMS REQUIRED BY THE COURT
Filing RequirementsCivil cases

Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026Mandatory

The court must appoint a guardian ad litem before approving a minor's settlement when the gross settlement equals or exceeds $50,000.

However, "... before approving a settlement of the minor's claim in any case in which the gross settlement involving a minor equals or exceeds $50,000", the Court must appoint a guardian ad litem.

Document Type

Guardian Ad Litem Appointment

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Div-01-Approval-Minors-Settlement · p. 1
|SecAPPOINTMENT AND REPORT OF GUARDIAN AD LITEM
Filing RequirementsCivil cases

Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026Mandatory

A detailed closing statement must show attorney fees, recipients, costs, anticipated fund distribution, liens, outstanding balances, and unresolved claims compensated from the proceeds.

A copy of a detailed closing statement showing the attorney's fees and the recipients, costs expended or to be expended, anticipated distribution of funds and to whom, liens resolved and unresolved, outstanding balances owed, as required by The Rules Regulating The Florida Bar and specifically Rule 4-1.5, and unresolved claims against the Estate, as well as any other claims being compensated from these proceeds.

Document Type

Closing Statement

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Div-01-Approval-Minors-Settlement · p. 2
|SecITEMS REQUIRED BY THE COURT
Filing RequirementsCivil cases

Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026Mandatory

The court requires information concerning the appointment of and report from a guardian ad litem regarding the proposed settlement.

3- The appointment of, and report from, a Guardian Ad Litem regarding the proposed settlement.

Document Type

Guardian Ad Litem Report

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Div-01-Approval-Minors-Settlement · p. 2
|SecITEMS REQUIRED BY THE COURT
Filing RequirementsCivil cases

Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026Mandatory

A copy of any release or settlement agreement requiring the minor's or guardian's signature must be provided with counsel-review assurances and written confirmation of the parties' agreement that it releases only the settling party and its insurers for that party.

A copy of the release, and any settlement agreements to which the minor, or his guardian on behalf of the minor, will need to sign and assurances that it has been reviewed by counsel and that all parties agree, in writing, that it is only intended to release the settling party and their insurers as insurers of this particular settling party, and is not intended to release any other defendant or non-party.

Document Type

Release Or Settlement Agreement

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Div-01-Approval-Minors-Settlement · p. 3
|SecEffect of Release and/or Settlement Agreement
Filing RequirementsCivil cases

Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026Mandatory

The report must address the existence or absence of medical insurance, Medicaid, Medicare, and other projected payment sources for future treatment.

The existence of medical insurance, Medicaid, Medicare or other sources of payment, or lack thereof, for future treatment that has been projected.

Document Type

Guardian Ad Litem Report

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Div-01-Approval-Minors-Settlement · p. 3
|SecITEMS REQUIRED BY THE COURT
Filing RequirementsCivil cases

Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026Mandatory

Photographs of the child after the incident and at the present condition are required when the injury or treatment causes scarring or disfigurement.

If the injury or treatment involves resulting scarring or disfigurement, photographs of the child after the incident and photographs of the present condition will be required.

Document Type

Photographs

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Div-01-Approval-Minors-Settlement · p. 3
|SecITEMS REQUIRED BY THE COURT
Filing RequirementsCivil cases

Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026Mandatory

Copies of initial medical records, including the history, physical, presenting condition, and hospitalization records, must be provided.

Copies of the initial medical records including the history and physical showing the presenting condition, if hospitalized the admission and discharge and summary resume will be necessary.

Document Type

Initial Medical Records

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Div-01-Approval-Minors-Settlement · p. 3
|SecITEMS REQUIRED BY THE COURT
Filing RequirementsCivil cases

Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026Mandatory

A final report from each primary treating physician must state whether future care is needed and, if possible, its approximate cost.

A final report from each primary treating physician with an indication of the need for, or the lack of need for, future care and, if possible the approximate costs.

Document Type

Physician Report

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Div-01-Approval-Minors-Settlement · p. 3
|SecITEMS REQUIRED BY THE COURT
Filing RequirementsCivil cases

Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026Mandatory

The report must address whether the minor is bound by a confidentiality agreement, the authority and consequences of a violation, and the party responsible for seeking appropriate sealing under Florida Rule of Judicial Administration 2.420(d).

If the release and/or settlement agreement require a confidentiality agreement, is the minor child meant to be bound by such agreement and by what authority? What is the anticipated consequence to the minor child for violation of this confidentiality agreement? Which party will take responsibility to seek, and obtain, the appropriate measure to seal the limited documentation in the Court file pursuant to Florida Rules of Judicial Administration, Rule2.420(d)?

Document Type

Confidentiality Agreement

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Div-01-Approval-Minors-Settlement · p. 4
|SecEffect of Release and/or Settlement Agreement
Filing Requirements

Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026Mandatory

A remote-appearance motion must include a proposed order.

Any request for remote appearance at an evidentiary hearing must be made by motion and received by the court at least 5 business days prior to the hearing date with a filed cover letter and proposed order.

Document Type

Remote Appearance Motion

Content & Formatting
Proposed Order
Filing Requirements

Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026Mandatory

The Notice of Hearing must identify whether the appearance is in person or virtual and, for an in-person appearance, provide courtroom 19-C and the courthouse address.

If in-person or virtual. If in-person, indicate courtroom 19-C and courthouse address.

Document Type

Notice Of Hearing

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Filing Requirements

Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026Mandatory

A Notice of Hearing for a virtual appearance must include the Webex link.

If virtual, it must include the Webex link and;

Document Type

Notice Of Hearing

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Filing Requirements

Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026Mandatory

All Notices of Hearing must contain the ADA accommodations language in bold 14-point font.

ADA Accommodations-must be placed on all Notice of Hearings in bold, 14 font:

Document Type

Notice Of Hearing

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Filing Requirements

Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026Mandatory

An order's caption or title must describe the Court's subject and ruling rather than state only the word “Order.”

All Orders must describe, in the caption/title, the subject and ruling of the Court, (i.e. “Order Granting Motion to Strike Claim of Creditor Truist Bank.”) not just the word “Order”.

Document Type

Order

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Filing Requirements

Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026Mandatory

The correct case number and decedent's name must appear on the order and in the email subject line.

Please ensure the correct case number and decedent’s name are on the order as well as in the subject line of the email.

Document Type

Proposed Order

Content & Formatting
Case Number
Filing Requirements

Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026Mandatory

A probate email must attach the current required e-filed checklist, e-filed cover letter, and proposed order in Word format.

A copy of the required efiled checklist, which includes the e-filing information across the top, must be attached to your email, along with your efiled cover letter and proposed orders in Word. Please be sure you are using the most current version of the checklist, which may be found on the Court’s Probate webpage.

Document Type

Probate Checklist

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Filing Requirements

Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 1, 2026Mandatory

An email submitting a proposed order must include required checklists and an e-filed cover letter identifying the hearing status and date, confirming opposing counsel's approval or absence, bearing a filing stamp, and being viewable in the clerk's system.

Along with the proposed order, any required checklists, an e- filed cover letter must be attached to the email that indicates that the order is being submitted without a hearing or subsequent to a hearing held with date of hearing (the cover letter must have the filing stamp across the top and be viewable in the Clerk’s system) and must indicate that opposing counsel, if applicable, has reviewed and approved the form of the order or that there is no opposing counsel when submitting to the court for review.

Document Type

Cover Letter

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Filing Requirements

Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 1, 2026Mandatory

An order granting a motion to withdraw in a probate formal administration or for a corporate or other legal-entity client must state the specified new-counsel deadline and consequence.

The Order Granting Motion to Withdraw must contain the following language:  If a Probate case and a formal administration, the PR shall be given 30 days to obtain new counsel or the case will be dismissed. If the client is a corporation or other legal entity, allow no more than thirty (30) days to obtain substitute counsel.

Document Type

Proposed Order

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Filing Requirements

Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026Mandatory

Only the most recent version of a probate checklist may be used, and the applicable checklist must be fully completed to be considered.

All checklists were revised on October 31, 2022. Please only use the most recent version. The applicable checklist must be fully completed or it will not be considered.

Document Type

Probate Checklist

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Filing Requirements

Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026Mandatory

A party or self-represented party that used AI to prepare a filed paper must disclose that use in a clear factual statement and certify that every legal and record citation was independently verified as accurate.

However, if any party or self-represented party has used AI in the preparation of any complaint, answer, motion, brief, or other paper filed with the Court, the party MUST, in a clear and plain factual statement, disclose that AI has been used in the filing, and CERTIFY, that each and every citation to the law or the record in the paper, has been independently verified as accurate.

Document Type

Papers Filed With Court

Content & Formatting
Ai Disclosure
Filing Requirements

Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026Mandatory

A checklist must accompany proceedings to open or close a Formal Administration, file a Summary Administration, or file a Petition for Determining Homestead Status of Real Property.

• Usage: A checklist must be filed with, opening a Formal Administration, closing a Formal Administration, filing a Summary Administration and Petition for Determining Homestead Status of Real Property in Formal and Summary Administration cases.

Document Type

Probate Checklist

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Filing RequirementsCivil cases

Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 1, 2026Important

The court may appoint a guardian ad litem before approving a settlement when the gross settlement exceeds $15,000.

the Court may appoint a Guardian ad litem before approving a settlement if "... the gross settlement of the claim exceeds $15,000.

Document Type

Guardian Ad Litem Appointment

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Div-01-Approval-Minors-Settlement · p. 1
|SecAPPOINTMENT AND REPORT OF GUARDIAN AD LITEM
Filing RequirementsCivil cases

Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026Important

The report must identify whether a defense, indemnity, and hold-harmless provision in a release or settlement agreement applies to the minor or only the guardian and, if the minor is bound, identify the legal authority.

If the release and/or settlement agreement contain a duty to defend, indemnify and hold harmless, is such agreement intended to bind and apply to the minor child or just the guardian. If it is intended to apply to the minor child, by what legal authority can the minor child be bound to defend, indemnify and hold harmless this party.

Document Type

Release Or Settlement Agreement

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Div-01-Approval-Minors-Settlement · p. 3
|SecEffect of Release and/or Settlement Agreement
Filing Requirements

Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026Important

When a previously denied order is corrected and resubmitted, the cover letter and email body must both identify that circumstance.

If the order is being submitted for consideration after being denied and corrected, please indicate such in the cover letter AND in the body of the email.

Document Type

Cover Letter

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Filing RequirementsCivil cases

Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.Mandatory?

The Court will need the following information in most cases:

Summary: The court requires specified information before considering approval of a proposed minor settlement.

Document Type

Minor Settlement Approval Information

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Div-01-Approval-Minors-Settlement · p. 1
|SecITEMS REQUIRED BY THE COURT
Filing RequirementsCivil cases

Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.Mandatory?

The Court will need to know how the funds will be invested or protected and in what institution(s) or through which vehicle(s).

Summary: The court requires information explaining how the minor's settlement proceeds will be invested or protected and identifying the institutions or vehicles involved.

Document Type

Minor Proceeds Protection Plan

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Div-01-Approval-Minors-Settlement · p. 2
|SecITEMS REQUIRED BY THE COURT
Filing RequirementsCivil cases

Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.Mandatory?

2- The itemized proposed distribution amongst the beneficiaries and/or survivors, the Estate, or other entities with claims and costs and attorney's fees.

Summary: The court requires an itemized proposed distribution of net settlement proceeds among beneficiaries, survivors, the estate, and other entities, including claims, costs, and attorney fees.

Document Type

Proposed Distribution Of Settlement Proceeds

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Div-01-Approval-Minors-Settlement · p. 2
|SecITEMS REQUIRED BY THE COURT
Filing RequirementsCivil cases

Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.Mandatory?

If an annuity is to be purchased, the Court will need a copy of the information setting forth the cost, present value, payment schedule, the name of the company that will be used, the name of the owner of the annuity and its relationship to those companies being released, as well the rating of the company.

Summary: If an annuity will be purchased, the court requires information stating its cost, present value, payment schedule, company, owner, relationship to released companies, and company rating.

Document Type

Guardian Ad Litem Report

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Div-01-Approval-Minors-Settlement · p. 3
|SecITEMS REQUIRED BY THE COURT
Filing Requirements

Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.Mandatory?

Title of each petition/motion and date filed

Summary: The Notice of Hearing must state the title and filing date of each petition or motion.

Document Type

Notice Of Hearing

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Filing Requirements

Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.Mandatory?

Email cover letter, motion and proposed order to chambers for review.

Summary: A motion to withdraw as counsel must be accompanied by a cover letter and proposed order emailed to chambers for review.

Document Type

Proposed Order

Content & Formatting
Proposed Order
Filing Requirements

Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.Mandatory?

If Guardianship case, the Guardian is required to have counsel and shall be given 30 days to obtain new counsel or the case will be set for a Rule to Show Cause hearing.

Summary: A guardianship order granting withdrawal must state that the guardian has 30 days to obtain new counsel or the case will be set for a rule-to-show-cause hearing.

Document Type

Proposed Order

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Filing Requirements

Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.Mandatory?

The motion, cover letter and proposed order must be emailed to the Court at least five (5) business days prior to the court date.

Summary: For a virtual witness appearance, email the motion, cover letter, and proposed order to the Court at least five business days before the court date.

Document Type

Motion

Content & Formatting
Proposed Order
Division 1 - Probate-Guardianship-Mental Health Procedures - 4-16-26 · Apr 2026 · p. 14
|SecG. Exhibits for Evidentiary and Non-Jury Trial Proceedings
Filing RequirementsCivil cases

Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.Important?

The above mentioned medical reports should contain an estimate of the cost of and an explanation of the treatment plan for these injuries.

Summary: The medical reports concerning scarring or disfigurement should estimate the cost of treatment and explain the treatment plan for the injuries.

Document Type

Medical Report

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Div-01-Approval-Minors-Settlement · p. 3
|SecITEMS REQUIRED BY THE COURT
Filing Requirements

Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.Important?

The subject line of the email must include the case number, style, and date/time of the hearing.

Summary: The short-matter courtesy-copy email must identify the case number, case style, and hearing date and time in its subject line.

Document Type

Notice Of Hearing

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.

Filing & Service rules

Electronic Filing Rules

An attorney must e-file a cover letter with the clerk in every case to document why the court received the order.

A cover letter must be e-filed by the attorney with the Clerk and is required on all cases to document in the court file why the order was received by the Court.

Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026

Page 10 | D. Submission of Orders to Chambers

Documents must be filed online.

File Your Documents Online - Instructions

Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026

Page 1 | Important Information

Routine probate petitions and proposed orders must be emailed to the court for chambers review and signature.

Routine petitions and proposed orders must be emailed to the Court for the Court to review and sign in chambers.

Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.

Page 9 | D. Submission of Orders to Chambers

Filing Timing and Cure Windows

A request for remote appearance at an evidentiary hearing must be made by motion at least five business days before the hearing and include a filed cover letter and proposed order.

All evidentiary hearings are in person. Any request for remote appearance at an evidentiary hearing must be made by motion and received by the court at least 5 business days prior to the hearing date with a filed cover letter and proposed order.

Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026

Page 4 | Hearings (other than short matters)

Do not file a Notice of Hearing until the Judicial Assistant confirms the hearing time by email.

Your hearing time is not confirmed until you receive a reply from the Judicial Assistant. Do not file a Notice of Hearing until you have received a conformation email. At the time of the emailed hearing confirmation, the Judicial Assistant will confirm your appearance type for the hearing.

Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 1, 2026

Page 5 | B. Scheduling Procedures

The cover letter, motion, and other necessary documents must be viewable in the clerk's system before email submission because the court will delete or reject emails whose supporting documents cannot yet be viewed.

Be sure that documents necessary to review the submission, including the cover letter and motion, can be viewed on the Clerk’s system before submitting. The Court will not hold emails waiting for documents to be viewable and they will be deleted/rejected.

Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 1, 2026

Page 10 | D. Submission of Orders to Chambers

Courtesy-copy submissions must be sent no more than ten but at least five business days before the hearing.

Deadline for Submissions: At least five (5) business days prior but no more than ten (10) business days prior to the hearing to ensure an opportunity for the Court to review.

Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026

Page 12 | E. Courtesy Copies of Case Law and Other Documents

Courtesy copies should be sent no earlier than 10 days before the hearing.

Courtesy copies should not be sent any sooner than 10 days prior to the hearing.

Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 1, 2026

Page 3 | Setting: Short matters hearings

The filer must email the Notice of Hearing, motions, and proposed orders in Word format to 1orange@ninthcircuit.org 3–10 business days before the hearing.

In addition to filing the Notice of Hearing with the Clerk of Court, a copy of the Notice of Hearing, Motion(s), and proposed order(s) (in word format) must be emailed to 1orange@ninthcircuit.org at least three (3) but no more than ten (10) business days prior to the hearing to ensure an opportunity for the Court to review.

Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 1, 2026

Page 4 | Submission Deadlines

An objection to a remote-appearance motion must be received within two business days after the motion is filed.

Any objection to the motion must be received by the Court within 2 business days of the filing of the motion.

Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.

Page 4 | Hearings (other than short matters)

Failure to make the required timely submission will result in the short-matter hearing not being held.

Failure to do so will result in the hearing not being held.

Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.

Page 4 | Submission Deadlines

The motion, cover letter, and proposed order for a virtual witness appearance must be submitted at least five business days before the court date.

The motion, cover letter and proposed order must be emailed to the Court at least five (5) business days prior to the court date.

Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.

Page 14 | G. Exhibits for Evidentiary and Non-Jury Trial Proceedings

After a hearing, the judge will advise counsel at the hearing of the proposed-order submission deadline.

If a hearing is held the Judge will advise counsel at the hearing of the deadline to submit the proposed order.

Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.

Page 9 | D. Submission of Orders to Chambers

Service and Proof of Service Rules

A guardianship attorney-fee motion or petition must be supported by the guardian's filed written consent or proper notice, and the filing must state the consent, service, or applicable exemption.

There must be either a filed, written consent of the guardian or proper service of notice to the appropriate parties and the motion/petition must state that either there exists consent or proper service or that there is exemption for consent or notice

Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026

Page 11 | D. Submission of Orders

When the court requests an order involving other parties, counsel must draft and circulate it within three business days, email it to the court within seven days after the hearing, and provide a copy to the other parties.

If counsel is asked by the Court to prepare an order where there are opposing counsel or other parties, the order should be drafted and circulated within three (3) business days and must be submitted via email to the court within seven (7) days of the hearing, with a copy to opposing counsel or to the other parties.

Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026

Page 12 | D. Submission of Orders

If there are objections to a proposed order, opposing counsel or a self-represented party should file an objection cover letter and email it to the court within 24 hours.

Within 24 hours, opposing counsel and/or pro se/self represented party should file a cover letter which indicates their objections and email to the court.

Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026

Page 12 | D. Submission of Orders

Attorneys and self-represented litigants must use Form 2.603 to update their contact information whenever the email account registered for electronic service changes.

It is the responsibility of attorneys and pro se/self-represented litigants to update their contact information using Form 2.603 any time there is a change in the e-mail account registered for electronic service

Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.

Page 2 | A. Communications with the Judicial Office

Every party, including a self-represented litigant, must be copied on email sent to the judicial office.

All parties, including pro se/self represented litigants, must be copied on any e-mail directed to the judicial office.

Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.

Page 2 | A. Communications with the Judicial Office

Attorneys and self-represented litigants must provide an email address for electronic delivery of signed orders unless excused.

All attorneys and pro se/self-represented litigants must provide an e-mail address to receive signed orders electronically, unless excused.

We could not find this wording in the court's document. Open the source before relying on it.

Page 2 | A. Communications with the Judicial Office

The Notice of Hearing must be filed and served immediately after hearing confirmation.

Notice of Hearing: A notice of hearing must be filed and served immediately only after receiving a conformation email from the Judicial Assistant. The Notice of Hearing must include the following:

Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.

Page 5 | B. Scheduling Procedures

Every party must be copied on all email submissions.

All parties must be copied on all email submissions.

Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.

Page 10 | D. Submission of Orders to Chambers

All courtesy-copy requirements should be submitted together in one email.

All requirements should be summitted in one email.

Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.

Page 12 | E. Courtesy Copies of Case Law and Other Documents

Courtesy Copy Requirements

At least three (3) business days before the hearing, provide the judge by email a courtesy copy of the motion, hearing notice with the video link and reason the hearing is necessary, and proposed order(s) in Word format.

A courtesy copy of the motion, notice of hearing with the video link and reason for the necessity of the hearing, and proposed order(s) in word format must be provided to the judge via email to 1orange@ninthcircuit.org at least three (3) business days before the hearing.

Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 1, 2026

Page 3 | Setting: Short matters hearings

Email courtesy copies of the listed hearing materials to 1orange@ninthcircuit.org at least five but no more than ten business days before the hearing.

In one email, courtesy copies of the Notice of Hearing, proposed order(s) in word format, petition/motion, response, reply, memo of law and/or case law you wish the court to consider are required to be emailed to 1orange@ninthcircuit.org at least five (5) but no more than ten (10) business days prior to the hearing to ensure an opportunity for the Court to review.

Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026

Page 6 | B. Scheduling Procedures

Courtesy copies are required for every hearing and must be provided according to the hearing-confirmation email instructions.

When Required: Courtesy copies are required for all hearings and must be provided following the instructions in the email confirmation setting hearing.

Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 1, 2026

Page 12 | E. Courtesy Copies of Case Law and Other Documents

Email the judge a copy of the hearing notice, motions, and proposed orders at least three but no more than ten business days before the hearing.

In addition to filing the Notice of Hearing with the Clerk of Court, a copy of the Notice of Hearing, Motion(s), and proposed order(s) (in word format) must be emailed to 1orange@ninthcircuit.org at least three (3) but no more than ten (10) business days prior to the hearing to ensure an opportunity for the Court to review.

Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.

Page 4 | Submission Deadlines

Failure to provide courtesy copies to all parties may result in cancellation of the hearing.

Failure to provide courtesy copies to all parties may result in the hearing being cancelled as the court will be unable to properly prepare.

Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.

Page 4 | Submission Deadlines

For most short matters, email the petition or motion, cover letter, and proposed order to chambers for review before setting a hearing; the Judicial Assistant will notify the party if a hearing is needed.

Most Short Matters can be reviewed in chambers without setting a hearing and it is advised you email the petition/motion, cover letter and proposed order to chambers first and if a hearing is needed you will be notified by the Judicial Assistant.

Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.

Page 2 | B. Scheduling Procedures

Courtesy copies received fewer than five business days before the hearing may not be reviewed before the hearing.

Additionally, any courtesy copies received after the 5 days prior to the hearing may not be reviewed by the court prior to the hearing.

Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.

Page 6 | B. Scheduling Procedures

Sealing & Redaction Procedures

The closing statement should not be publicly filed with the court and must instead be submitted under seal or brought to any hearing.

The closing statement should NOT befiled with the Court and should be submitted to the Court directly under seal or be brought to the hearing if one is held.

Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 1, 2026 · Civil cases

Page 2 | ITEMS REQUIRED BY THE COURT

Pre-Motion Conference Requirements

A proposed order must not be sent to the court until opposing counsel has approved its form, when applicable.

Please do not send proposed orders to the Court until you have approval as to the form by opposing counsel, if applicable.

We could not find this wording in the court's document. Open the source before relying on it.

Page 12 | D. Submission of Orders

Adjournment & Extension Requirements

A continuance request must be submitted at least five business days before the scheduled court date, show good cause, and be signed by the requesting party unless good cause excuses the signature requirement.

Continuance Procedure: Continuances will be granted only upon good cause shown. A request for continuance must be submitted at least five (5) business days prior to the scheduled court date. Except for good cause shown, the motion must be signed by the party requesting the continuance, as required by Florida Rule of General Practice and Judicial Administration 2.545(e).

Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026

Page 7 | B. Scheduling Procedures

Chambers Communication Rules

All communications to the judicial office must be sent by email to the listed address and include the case number and case name in the subject line.

All communications to the judicial office must be submitted by e-mail to 1orange@ninthcircuit.org. The subject line must contain the case number and case name.

Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026

Page 2 | A. Communications with the Judicial Office

Request a hearing by email to 1orange@ninthcircuit.org, copying opposing counsel or the pro se/self-represented litigant, and provide the specified hearing information.

Email 1orange@ninthcircuit.org copying opposing counsel/pro se/self-represented litigants requesting the hearing be added to the docket. The hearing request must be in the below format including the required information:

Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026

Page 5 | B. Scheduling Procedures

The party cancelling a hearing must immediately email the court at the specified address to advise the court of the cancellation.

The party cancelling the hearing must immediately email 1orange@ninthcircuit.org to advise of the cancellation.

Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026

Page 7 | B. Scheduling Procedures

Orders are submitted to chambers by email at 1orange@ninthcircuit.org.

Submission Method: Via email to 1orange@ninthcircuit.org

Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026

Page 9 | D. Submission of Orders to Chambers

Email a copy of an emergency motion to the Judicial Assistant at 1orange@ninthcircuit.org to alert the Court to emergency consideration.

If you have filed a motion (which should contain a detailed explanation of the circumstances of the emergency) that you believe needs emergency consideration by the judge, please email a copy to the Judicial Assistant at 1orange@ninthcircuit.org to alert the Court that there is a Petition or Motion for emergency consideration.

Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026

Page 13 | F. Emergency and Other Urgent Matters

The attorney noticing a hearing must provide at least five days’ notice of the hearing.

The attorney noticing the hearing must provide at least 5 days’ notice of

Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026

Page 2 | B. Scheduling Procedures

Proposed agreed and unopposed orders should be emailed to 1orange@ninthcircuit.org.

Proposed agreed and unopposed orders should be emailed to 1orange@ninthcircuit.org.

Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026

Page 9 | D. Submission of Orders to Chambers

The judicial assistant is not authorized to provide legal advice.

The judicial assistant is not authorized to provide legal advice

Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026

Page 2 | A. Communications with the Judicial Office

Every short-matter hearing must be coordinated with opposing counsel or the self-represented party.

All short matters hearings must be coordinated with opposing counsel and/or pro se/self represented party.

Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.

Page 3 | Setting: Short matters hearings

A request for a hearing longer than one hour must be emailed to Judge Blechman with the petition or motion attached and an explanation for the requested duration.

Any hearing requests for longer than 1 hour must be approved by Judge Blechman by emailing the 1orange email address, attaching the petition/motion and detailing the reasons for the excessive time.

Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.

Page 4 | Hearings (other than short matters)

After a rehearing, reconsideration, or new-trial motion is visible in the clerk's system, a copy must be emailed directly to chambers with a filed cover letter and proposed order.

Upon filing the Motion and after viewable in the Clerk’s system, you must email a copy directly to chambers with a filed cover letter and proposed order for review because the Clerk does not provide the motion to the Court.

Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.

Page 11 | D. Submission of Orders

Send an electronic copy of trial exhibits to 1orange@ninthcircuit.org with the case number and hearing date and time in the subject line.

An electronic copy must be sent to 1orange@ninthcircuit.org with the case number, date and time of the hearing appearing in the subject line.

Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.

Page 13 | G. Exhibits for Evidentiary and Non-Jury Trial Proceedings

The court will not consider unsolicited communications from non-parties, and parties must contact the judicial office only in accordance with the listed practices and procedures.

Unsolicited communications from non-parties will not be considered by the court. Parties may only contact the judicial office in accordance with these practices and procedures.

Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.

Page 2 | A. Communications with the Judicial Office

A request to cross-notice a matter must be emailed to the Judicial Assistant and must state whether the matter can be heard within the originally allotted time.

Cross-noticing: You must email the Judicial Assistant requesting to cross-notice a matter. Your email must indicate if the matter can be heard in the same allotted time the hearing is set for.

Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.

Page 7 | B. Scheduling Procedures

A party must allow 15 business days before asking the court about the status of an audited Homestead, Summary Administration, or Discharge order.

Please allow 15 business days before inquiring of the court of the status of this type of submitted order.

Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.

Page 10 | D. Submission of Orders to Chambers

Before contacting the judicial assistant about whether an order was signed, counsel should check e-service and then the clerk's docket system.

If you want to know if a specific Order has been signed by the Judge, you should first check your e-service email as the Order may have been e-served. If not received by e-service, then check the Clerk’s system to see if it has been docketed before contacting the Judicial Assistant, as she may not be able to track the signing of a specific Order due to the high volume of Orders received by the Court.

Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.

Page 12 | D. Submission of Orders

Court-wide rules

Applies court-wide

These 181 rules apply across Ninth Judicial Circuit of Florida, Orange and Osceola Counties. Where this judge's own standing orders above address the same topic, the judge's requirement controls.

Filing Requirements

All 99
  • Applies to
    Child support guidelines worksheet

    The Child Support Guidelines Worksheet must match the child support amount stated in the Final Judgment.

  • Applies to
    Proposed final judgment

    Counsel must bring the original proposed Final Judgment to the final hearing.

  • Applies to
    Proposed final judgment
    Must include
    certificate of service

    The proposed Final Judgment must include a proper certificate of service naming both parties.

Service

All 20
  • Applies to
    Final judgment

    After the Final Judgment is signed, counsel must sign its certificate of service and provide copies to all parties.

  • Applies to
    Income deduction order

    A copy of the Income Deduction Order must be served on the obligor’s payor or payors.

  • Applies to
    Income deduction order

    The obligor must notify the obligee and, when applicable, the IV-D agency within seven days after a change in address or payor information.

Communication

All 17
  • Contact
    Phone to clerk
    Phone
    407-836-2059

    Employers and income withholders may contact the Orange County Clerk of Courts by phone at 407-836-2059, by email, or through the court website for questions.

  • Contact
    Phone to clerk
    Phone
    407-836-2059

    Employees and obligors may contact the Orange County Clerk of Courts by phone at 407-836-2059, by email, or through the court website for questions.

  • Contact
    Phone to clerk
    Phone
    407-836-2059

    Questions may be directed to the Orange County Clerk of Courts by phone at 407-836-2059 or by email/website at the listed address.

Formatting

All 14
  • All incorporated exhibits must be properly tagged with a Clerk’s evidence tag.

  • Every checklist line must be completed with a date, and check marks, Xs, and N/A entries are prohibited.

  • The Income Withholding for Support form must be regular on its face.

About Judge Mark S. Blechman

**Mark S. Blechman** is listed as a current judicial officer of the [Ninth Judicial Circuit of Florida](https://ninthcircuit.org/judges/circuit). The circuit publishes these sections on the profile page: Judicial Assignment, Education, Certifications, Professional Activities, Awards and Honors, Important Information.

**Current assignment** **Division or department:** Probate, Guardianship, and Mental Health, Division 01 / 5 **Courtroom:** 19-C **Chambers:** Orange County Courthouse **Phone:** 407.836.2100 **Judicial assistant:** Terry Marino **Judicial assistant email:** 1orange@ninthcircuit.org **Official sources**

Common questions about Judge Mark S. Blechman's rules

Are courtesy copies required for Judge Mark S. Blechman?

Courtesy-copy rule applies for motions, notice of hearings, and proposed orders. Details: 1 copy, by email. At least three (3) business days before the hearing, provide the judge by email a courtesy copy of the motion, hearing notice with the video link and reason the hearing is necessary, and proposed order(s) in Word format.

View ruleSource: page 3, section Setting: Short matters hearings

Does Judge Mark S. Blechman require a pre-motion conference or letter before filing a motion?

Judge Mark S. Blechman's rules set a pre-motion procedure for covered motions. A proposed order must not be sent to the court until opposing counsel has approved its form, when applicable.

View ruleSource: page 12, section D. Submission of Orders

What formatting rules apply to filings before Judge Mark S. Blechman?

Judge Mark S. Blechman's formatting rule includes file format docx. All proposed orders must be submitted in Word format.

View ruleSource: page 9, section D. Submission of Orders to Chambers

What must be included with closing statement filings before Judge Mark S. Blechman?

The rule identifies required filing content or certificates. A detailed closing statement must show attorney fees, recipients, costs, anticipated fund distribution, liens, outstanding balances, and unresolved claims compensated from the proceeds.

View ruleSource: page 2, section ITEMS REQUIRED BY THE COURT

What must be included with minor settlement approval information filings before Judge Mark S. Blechman?

The rule identifies required filing content or certificates. The court requires specified information before considering approval of a proposed minor settlement.

View ruleSource: page 1, section ITEMS REQUIRED BY THE COURT

How may parties contact Judge Mark S. Blechman's chambers?

The rule addresses email communications with Judge Mark S. Blechman's chambers. The rule lists email 1orange@ninthcircuit.org. All communications to the judicial office must be sent by email to the listed address and include the case number and case name in the subject line.

View ruleSource: page 2, section A. Communications with the Judicial Office

How does Judge Mark S. Blechman handle sealed or redacted filings?

Judge Mark S. Blechman's rules set procedures for sealed or redacted filings. The closing statement should not be publicly filed with the court and must instead be submitted under seal or brought to any hearing.

View ruleSource: page 2, section ITEMS REQUIRED BY THE COURT

How do I request an adjournment or extension before Judge Mark S. Blechman?

Requests should be made at least 5 business days in advance when this rule applies before Judge Mark S. Blechman. The request must include reason for request. A continuance request must be submitted at least five business days before the scheduled court date, show good cause, and be signed by the requesting party unless good cause excuses the signature requirement.

View ruleSource: page 7, section B. Scheduling Procedures

Is electronic filing required before Judge Mark S. Blechman?

Yes. Electronic filing is required for the covered filings. Routine probate petitions and proposed orders must be emailed to the court for chambers review and signature.

View ruleSource: page 9, section D. Submission of Orders to Chambers

What filing deadlines does Judge Mark S. Blechman set?

Failure to make the required timely submission will result in the short-matter hearing not being held.

View ruleSource: page 4, section Submission Deadlines

What rule applies to e-service for all parties before Judge Mark S. Blechman?

The rule addresses service method, recipient, or timing requirements. Details: method: e-service, recipient: all parties. Every party, including a self-represented litigant, must be copied on email sent to the judicial office.

View ruleSource: page 2, section A. Communications with the Judicial Office
Complete rules summary for Judge Mark S. Blechman

The court may appoint a guardian ad litem before approving a settlement when the gross settlement exceeds $15,000.

A detailed closing statement must show attorney fees, recipients, costs, anticipated fund distribution, liens, outstanding balances, and unresolved claims compensated from the proceeds.

The court requires specified information before considering approval of a proposed minor settlement.

The gross amount of the proposed settlement must be provided in the motion for approval.

The court requires an itemized proposed distribution of net settlement proceeds among beneficiaries, survivors, the estate, and other entities, including claims, costs, and attorney fees.

The court requires information concerning the appointment of and report from a guardian ad litem regarding the proposed settlement.

The court must appoint a guardian ad litem before approving a minor's settlement when the gross settlement equals or exceeds $50,000.

The closing statement should not be publicly filed with the court and must instead be submitted under seal or brought to any hearing.

The court requires information explaining how the minor's settlement proceeds will be invested or protected and identifying the institutions or vehicles involved.

If an annuity will be purchased, the court requires information stating its cost, present value, payment schedule, company, owner, relationship to released companies, and company rating.

Copies of initial medical records, including the history, physical, presenting condition, and hospitalization records, must be provided.

A final report from each primary treating physician must state whether future care is needed and, if possible, its approximate cost.

Photographs of the child after the incident and at the present condition are required when the injury or treatment causes scarring or disfigurement.

The medical reports concerning scarring or disfigurement should estimate the cost of treatment and explain the treatment plan for the injuries.

The report must address the existence or absence of medical insurance, Medicaid, Medicare, and other projected payment sources for future treatment.

A copy of any release or settlement agreement requiring the minor's or guardian's signature must be provided with counsel-review assurances and written confirmation of the parties' agreement that it releases only the settling party and its insurers for that party.

The report must identify whether a defense, indemnity, and hold-harmless provision in a release or settlement agreement applies to the minor or only the guardian and, if the minor is bound, identify the legal authority.

The report must address whether the minor is bound by a confidentiality agreement, the authority and consequences of a violation, and the party responsible for seeking appropriate sealing under Florida Rule of Judicial Administration 2.420(d).

All proposed orders must be submitted in Word format.

A Notice of Hearing for a virtual appearance must include the Webex link.

All communications to the judicial office must be sent by email to the listed address and include the case number and case name in the subject line.

Every party, including a self-represented litigant, must be copied on email sent to the judicial office.

The court will not consider unsolicited communications from non-parties, and parties must contact the judicial office only in accordance with the listed practices and procedures.

Attorneys and self-represented litigants must provide an email address for electronic delivery of signed orders unless excused.

Attorneys and self-represented litigants must use Form 2.603 to update their contact information whenever the email account registered for electronic service changes.

The judicial assistant is not authorized to provide legal advice.

For most short matters, email the petition or motion, cover letter, and proposed order to chambers for review before setting a hearing; the Judicial Assistant will notify the party if a hearing is needed.

The attorney noticing a hearing must provide at least five days’ notice of the hearing.

Every short-matter hearing must be coordinated with opposing counsel or the self-represented party.

At least three (3) business days before the hearing, provide the judge by email a courtesy copy of the motion, hearing notice with the video link and reason the hearing is necessary, and proposed order(s) in Word format.

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